The SP101 is really a J frame size gun. It would compare more closely to the Model 63. The 617 is a K frame, which is bigger and heavier than the 63 or 101. My 4” 617 with Hogue grips weighs about 40 oz. while my 63 weighs about 30 oz, about what the SP101 in .22 is supposed to weigh.

rikman

January 31, 2012, 08:16 PM

I love my 617 but the Ruger sp 101 sure looks purty!

Hondo 60

January 31, 2012, 08:22 PM

ClemY, are you sure the 617 is heavier than the SP101?
I know its bigger, but SP101s are MUCH heavier than J-frame & may be even heavier than a K frame.

I have an older (1966-67) k frame & an SP101.
without putting them on a scale, I'd say the 101 is the heavier of the two.

Just my 2¢ worth

skidder

January 31, 2012, 09:20 PM

The model 617 is not a light gun. It's listed at 39 oz on the S&W site and the sp101 22 is listed at 30 oz (both with 4" barrels). I have the K22 and it's heavier than my 6" Security Six. My K22 with Pachmyr grips is only 7 ounces lighter than my 5.5 Redhawk :eek: (I was surprised myself).

ShowroomShine

January 31, 2012, 09:43 PM

I have and love both, but they are different. The 617 is head and shoulders more accurate with a better trigger. My SP101 took ALLOT of work to get the trigger to an acceptable level, and is accurate in its own right (although not as much so as the 617).

That being said, I shoot my SP101 more. The size lends it easier to being brought along in my bag to the farm daily.

Master Blaster

January 31, 2012, 10:00 PM

617 is a target gun designed as one and you can mount a scope on it , it has better iron sights as well. The Sp101 while a nice revolver is a trainer for the .357 sp101 and is designed as such. It would be interesting to put them both in a ransom rest. The Kframe 617 is heavier than a .357 K frame becaue it has the same size cylinder with smaller holes, and the same barrel (again a smaller hole) and frame.